Clay-Time to Make It Serious?

    Back then to the first few times playing with clay, we were in a stage of exploration. Through this process of building, ruining, and rebuilding, we got to know the texture and characteristics of clay. Since clay is three-dimensional, it stimulates another kind of thinking (Lowenfeld & Brittain, 1987, p.289).

While cleaning, the 5-year-old boy asked his dad, " can we say goodbye to your bike rack?" "Good bye, bike rack" the dad replied.   

Playing with clay is a kinesthetic activity. It helps children develop both gross and fine muscle control while manipulating clay.

    It is also a good chance to provide them the positive way to separate with their own stuff. How the parents react to separation make them feel comfortable to say good bye. 

    As for the older children, we save their artwork as below:

Glazing

    As Children get more and more familiar with this material, we keep their artwork for drying and firing. Because they treasure the artwork so much, children really pay attention to glaze every detail in their art. I cannot wait for seeing their facial expression when they see the final outcome!

Reference:

Lowenfeld, V. & Brittain, W.  (1987).   Creative and mental growth.  (8^th edition) London:  Macmillan.